If you are lucky enough to find a way of life you love, you must find the courage to live it. --John Irving

Monday, June 04, 2007

Godspeed, Richard...

The saying that the good die young held true this weekend with the sudden death of Richard Rodger. Richard was one of the first people I met when we moved up here. He gave my hubby his first Yukon job as a guide for Bonnet Plume Outfitters. He quickly became a treasured friend.

You couldn't help but like Richard. He was happy, outgoing and just an all round nice guy. He had a special ability to make whoever he was talking to feel like they were the only person in the room and that he truly cared about you were saying--even when you were so drunk you weren't making any damn sense! His positive attitude was contagious. No matter what life threw at him, Richard never showed any anger or bitterness. He just kept going with his silly little smile and that goofy giggle.

What I'd give to hear that giggle on my voice mail one more time demanding I bake him more cookies. The man loved his cookies and I enjoyed baking them for him. I even bought a special cookbook of nothing but cookie recipes just so Richard would have more options than plain ol' chocolate chip. I may never bake cookies without tears again.

At some point there will be comfort in the fact that Richard died doing what he loved best, flying, and where he loved to be. Right now there is only a deep sense of loss and pain. I'm glad I got to know you, Richard. I'm sorry there aren't going to be many more years of silly stories, cookies and late night bonfires. Godspeed, my friend. You'll be missed.

Wow, I can't believe this happened. I met Richard in January when he and Cam (owner of Black Sheep) came to see me about getting a small website designed. They were extremely great guys to deal with and obviously had a fantastic relationship, almost like father and son. Richard was funny, honest, trustworthy and most of all, real. I always looked forward to our meetings. I'll sorely miss him and his passion for life and grand adventures.

Richard sounds like the kind of person who will never leave his friends, so don't be surprised if you feel him nearby when you bake cookies. Sympathy to his family, you & Stuart, and all his friends. Woos,Pat, Star & Sherms

Dear TamaraLyn and Stuart, please give our sincere sympathy to Richard's mom and sister. I recall how friendly he was as he met us around one of your famous campfires. He will be missed but he did leave behind some great memories that you will treasure and share. love you and thinking of you, Mom